Independence with Help

Independence with a Little Help

Maryland program delivers non-medical support for aging in place

Sometimes remaining independent means getting a little help. The Maryland Department of Aging has developed a unique program to help Maryland’s older adults age-in-place, while remaining safe, healthy and engaged. It is called Community for Life℠.

What is the Community for Life℠ program?

Community for Life℠ was designed to help Maryland’s older adults remain in their homes as they age. The program helps seniors maintain their independence without burdening loved ones, exhausting financial resources, or leaving home in favor of more expensive long-term care facilities. The program directly targets the non-medical needs associated with aging-in-place by offering three primary services: 1) home repair and maintenance, 2) a service navigator to coordinate access to services, and 3) transportation.

How does the program work?

For a monthly fee, members receive, at a minimum, the following services: • Basic home repair and maintenance by a community “Handyman,” a list of vetted contractors, and contract review. • Regular contact with a “Service Navigator” to help coordinate access to services and to assist with any needs that may arise. • Transportation to doctor appointments, grocery stores, shopping, social events, and more. • Additional services may be included in each community.

Community for Life℠ helps protect older adults from scams, fraud, and exploitation by providing them with essential non-medical services to help them continue living independently in their homes. The program also helps prevent falls and in-home accidents by ensuring that necessary repairs are completed. Finally, many participants are able to maintain their home equity and remain independent without becoming isolated—improving both their financial and mental health.

Designed to help Maryland’s older adults maintain independence, Community for Life℠ addresses the non-medical needs associated with aging in place.

Current Community for LifeSM Programs

Community for Life is currently available in:

Allegany County • Anne Arundel County • N. Baltimore City • Baltimore County • Caroline County • Frederick County • Talbot County • Washington County • Wicomico County • Worcester County

The goal is to have Community for LifeSM programs statewide. Please check aging.maryland.gov for new programs.

Who is eligible for the program?

Participants must be residents of Maryland and age 60 or older. There are no health or income qualifications for the program.

Community for Life℠ is available in a variety of communities and counties throughout Maryland. A complete list of current programs and contact information is featured on line.